The Van Alstyne High School Cheerleaders returned from NCA Cheer Camp with numerous team and individual honors, highlighted by earning the NCA Leadership Rock Award, the highest honor presented at NCA Leadership Cheer Camp.
Awarded to only one team in attendance, the Leadership Rock Award recognizes a squad that not only performs at a high competitive level but also exemplifies strong moral character, servant leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship and a positive influence on others throughout the camp experience.
The award reflects not only excellence in cheerleading performance, but also the values and character displayed by team members on and off the mat. Receiving this prestigious honor is a testament to the heart, integrity and leadership demonstrated by the Panther Cheer program.
The squad also delivered an impressive performance in the Game Day Competition, earning Runner-Up honors against a highly competitive field. Finishing just behind a talented 6A program, the Panthers showcased their ability to compete at the highest level while representing their school with pride.
In addition, the team earned the prestigious NCA Achievement Award, recognizing its commitment to excellence, growth and overall performance throughout the camp experience.
One of the camp's highest individual recognitions is selection to the NCA All-American Program, which honors cheerleaders who demonstrate outstanding technical skills, leadership, confidence and spirit.
The following Panther Cheerleaders were nominated as NCA All-American candidates:
Mia Clough, Kannyn Ramer, Miranda Gossett, Kenzie Linthicum, Keziah McNamara, Morgyn McDonald, Katie Rose Johnson, Madi Rivers, Eliana Laskaris, Aaliyah Willaby, Hudson Bramley, Ashley Warner, Torryn Latva, Kaylee Swank, Samantha Dye and Avery Minchey.
From this distinguished group of nominees, Torryn Latva, Keziah McNamara and Morgyn McDonald were selected to represent Van Alstyne as members of the NCA All-American Team.
Miranda Gossett also received the distinguished honor of being nominated for NCA Staff, a highly selective recognition reserved for athletes who demonstrate exceptional leadership, character, professionalism and cheerleading ability. NCA Staff members serve as instructors and role models for future campers across the country, making this nomination a significant accomplishment.
Additional individual honors included:
• Pin It Forward Pins, awarded to cheerleaders who demonstrated kindness, encouragement, leadership and a positive impact on those around them. Recipients included Mia Clough, Madi Rivers, Kenzie Dolton, Avery Minchey and Morgyn McDonald.
• Jump Awards, presented to athletes who demonstrated exceptional jump technique, height and execution. Recipients were Keziah McNamara and Ashley Warner.
• Tumbling Awards, recognizing outstanding tumbling skills and dedication to improvement. Recipients were Torryn Latva, Hudson Bramley and Keziah McNamara.
Throughout the week, the squad worked to improve its cheerleading skills, strengthen teamwork and represent Van Alstyne with excellence. Their dedication, positive attitude and commitment to one another were recognized through the numerous team and individual honors earned during camp.
Coaches Melissa Reid and Catherine Hill expressed their pride in the team's accomplishments.
"Our cheerleaders represented Van Alstyne with tremendous character, work ethic and enthusiasm throughout the week. Earning Runner-Up in Game Day against such strong competition, having multiple athletes selected as All-Americans, and seeing Miranda nominated for NCA Staff are incredible accomplishments. Most importantly, they supported one another, embraced every opportunity to learn, and represented our school with pride and class. We couldn't be more proud of this group."
The future is bright for Panther Cheer as these athletes bring home new skills, stronger leadership and unforgettable memories from NCA Camp.
Congratulations to all of our cheerleaders on an outstanding week of growth, achievement and Panther Pride.
One Pride. One Purpose. Panther Cheer.